Apply: Graduate Programs in Special Education

MEd Special Education - Initial License

This MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed for those who wish to qualify for an initial license as a teacher of students with moderate disabilities (PK-2, PK-8, or 5-12) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.

MEd Special Education - Advanced Studies

The MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed to help teachers upgrade their knowledge and skills in the field of special education.

Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.

Special Education - Initial Licensure Only

The Initial Licensure Only program does not lead to an academic degree. It is designed for individuals seeking an initial license as a teacher of students with moderate disabilities (PK-2, PK-8, or 5-12) and/or training in special education.

Graduate Application Process

Apply Now

Required Materials

$50 non-refundable application fee
Official transcript from all institutions attended with a minimum final grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale in your bachelor's degree
- A bachelor’s degree with a major appropriate to the teaching license sought (e.g., physical education, computer sciences, or technology).
- If you attended an institution outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation from one of our approved agencies is required.
- If your undergraduate final grade point average falls below the minimum stated, please contact Graduate Admissions.
Two references
Statement of purpose
A sample of academic writing, appropriate length is approximately two pages with citations.
- You may use a paper, or excerpt of a paper, that you have already written or write something new for the admissions committee. Take a position and support that position with evidence and appropriate citations. If you write something new, it is suggested you explore an issue special education is facing today. Ideas include but are not limited to inclusion, response to intervention, new autism guidelines, eligibility determination, over-representation in special education, self-advocacy, role of parents in the program, etc.
For advanced studies applicants: copy of an initial license in special education issued by the commonwealth of Massachusetts. Your license can be sent to gradadmissions@salemstate.edu.
An interview with a member of the admissions committee. You will be contacted to schedule your interview after your application is complete.
English Proficiency, if applicable for international applicants

Deadlines

Applications accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed once complete. View final deadlines on our “Graduate Application and Deadlines” page.

The master of education in special education initial license, the master of education in special education advanced studies, and the licensure-only special education programs do not support international students in f or j status due to program modality and/or part-time status. Please contact graduate admissions to verify which programs are suitable.